The third-generation Volkswagen Tiguan is all-new for 2025. Updated sheetmetal should make it more appealing to American sensibilities, while several other improvements modernize the cabin. But VW will only offer the SUV in a two-row configuration going forward.
The new Tiguan features an updated 2.0-liter turbocharged EA888 engine. It is more powerful than the previous example, with 201 hp instead of 184, and is combined with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Towing capacity increases from 1,500 pounds to 1,800 pounds on 4Motion all-wheel drive models.
Volkswagen is not yet ready to provide fuel economy figures, but Volkswagen expects this to improve. In addition to the extra power, the 2025 Tiguan is also about 170 pounds lighter than the second-generation model, which the automaker attributes to the use of aluminum in the suspension and body structure.
The 2025 Tiguan rides on the MQB Evo platform instead of the previous generation MQB Classic, and features all-new sheetmetal. It has a shorter rear overhang, but is still taller than the outgoing model. The new design is more athletic, with a sharp crease along the body, squared wheel arches and a rear spoiler. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard, but 19- and 20-inch options are also available.
Photo by: Volkswagen
Photo by: Volkswagen
Volkswagen has made its 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit standard for the new Tiguan range. It sits next to the standard 12.9-inch infotainment display or the optional 15.0-inch unit on the dashboard. The two-zone Climatronic automatic climate control is also standard, with three zones available as an option.
Between the seats is a physical volume knob with a screen that occupants can click on to access driving modes or the new Atmospheres that sync ambient lighting and audio. VW has also increased the storage capacity of the center console to 7.6 liters.
Buyers can also upgrade the sound system to a new 12-speaker Harmon Kardon system. VW improved the standard wireless charging, increasing the power from 5 to 15 watts and adding a cooler. It also has a money clip-style holder to keep the phone firmly against the charging pad.
Photo by: Volkswagen
The Tiguan also comes with four additional airbags, bringing the total to ten. VW’s IQ.Drive suite is also standard on the SUV, with forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control and more. A head-up display is optional, while adaptive front lighting is standard.
VW has not provided pricing information for the model. The 2024 Tiguan starts at $30,305 (price includes the $1,425 destination charge). The Tiguan is Volkswagen’s best-selling nameplate in the U.S., and sales of the crossover are up 19 percent this year.